They account for approximately 15% of all illnesses — the same proportion as cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
It is estimated that:
• around 25% of people will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives,
• approximately 10% live with chronic mental health conditions,
• currently, about 450 million people worldwide are affected by mental disorders.
This means that mental health challenges do not affect only “other people.” They affect our families, friends, colleagues, and sometimes ourselves.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Just as we pay attention to pain and symptoms in our bodies, it is important to recognize signs of psychological overload, such as chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia, exhaustion, or a feeling of losing control.
Talking about our struggles, seeking support, and reaching out for professional help are not signs of weakness. They are acts of self-care and self-respect.
Let us care for our mental health with the same attention and commitment that we give to our physical health.